Eckery & Rafajko: Women’s Soccer Players of the Year

SLCC Women’s Soccer Dominates All-Region Teams, Earns Player and Goalkeeper of the Year Honors

A stellar 2025 season for Salt Lake Community College (SLCC) Women’s Soccer culminated in nine Bruins players being recognized on the All-Region teams, including individual accolades for the SWAC Player of the Year and SWAC Goalkeeper of the Year.

Bruins’ Eckery Named SWAC Player of the Year

Sophie Eckery, a sophomore forward, was named the SWAC Player of the Year after leading the No. 4 ranked bruins with an impressive 12 goals and five assists throughout the season. Her offensive prowess proved pivotal for the team’s 15-2-2 record.

Did you know? – SLCC Women’s Soccer has consistently ranked among the top teams in the NJCAA, demonstrating a strong tradition of athletic excellence and player development.

Rafajko Secures Goalkeeper of the Year Title, Commits to Utah Tech

Sophomore goalkeeper Elle Rafajko earned the SWAC Goalkeeper of the Year award, demonstrating extraordinary skill between the posts.Rafajko recorded 47 saves while conceding only six goals, achieving 12 clean sheets throughout the year. She has already committed to continue her soccer career at Utah Tech University.

First and Second Team Recognition for Key Players

Several other Bruins earned recognition for their outstanding contributions. Lila Millward secured a spot on the first team, having scored 12 goals, including a hat trick in the Region 18 semi-final against CNCC, and adding three assists.

Two midfielders, Avery Thal and Sierra Jacobson, were named to the second team. Thal contributed six goals and one assist, commanding the midfield for the regular season champion Bruins. jacobson played a crucial role in Salt Lake’s possession-based game, tallying two assists. Shanna harris also earned second-team honors, recording five goals and six assists.

Nao Yamada also received second-team all-region honors, posting five assists and two goals before a season-ending injury curtailed her contributions.

Pro tip: – NJCAA All-Region selections are significant for player recruitment, often leading to scholarship opportunities at four-year universities.

Third Team Honors Reflect Team Depth

the Bruins’ depth was further highlighted with third-team selections for Jenna Nichols and Jayla McFarland. Nichols proved a consistent presence, contributing six assists and five goals. McFarland stepped up admirably following a season-ending injury to Yamada, providing valuable support in the defensive line.

Looking ahead: NJCAA National Tournament Bid Possible

The Bruins finished their season with a 15-2-2 record, winning the SWAC regular season championship and reaching the Region 18 semi-finals. Despite falling short of the Region 18 championship, the team’s overall performance and numerous award winners have positioned them as strong contenders for an at-large bid to the NJCAA National Tournament. The selection committee will announce bids in the coming days.

Reader question: – What do you think was the biggest factor in the Bruins’ accomplished season? Share your thoughts!

Follow the Bruins during the 2025-26 season on social media: Twitter: @slccbruins | Instagram: @slccbruins | Facebook: www.facebook.com/bruin.athletics.